Methods and compositions to aggregate algae

Abstract

The present invention comprises methods and compositions for aggregating algae so as to separate the algal cells from an aqueous algae suspension. A bioflocculent, comprising a composition comprising a bacteria, is used to aggregate the algae.

What is claimed is: 
     
       1. A method for the separation of microalgae from an aqueous suspension of microalgae, while maintaining the integrity of the microalgal cell structure, comprising,
 a) discontinuing providing additional nutrient media to the aqueous suspension of microalgae; 
 b) adding to the aqueous suspension of microalgae a bioflocculating bacteria, causing flocculation of at least some of the microalgae cells, wherein the bioflocculating bacteria is  Paenbacillus polymyxa  Strain 2 deposited with the American Type Culture Collection (ATCC) under Accession Number PTA-12841; and 
 c) removing at least a portion of the liquid of the suspension. 
 
     
     
       2. The method of  claim 1 , wherein the time for flocculating the microalgae is at least 2 days. 
     
     
       3. The method of  claim 1 , wherein the time for flocculating the microalgae is at least 4 days. 
     
     
       4. The method of  claim 1 , wherein the time for flocculating the microalgae is 5 days. 
     
     
       5. The method of  claim 1 , wherein the microalgae suspension is contained in a pond of at least 60,000 gallons. 
     
     
       6. The method of  claim 1 , wherein the bioflocculating bacteria is added by spraying or sprinkling the bacteria on the surface of the microalgae suspension. 
     
     
       7. The method of  claim 1 , further comprising d) removing the flocculated microalgae from the aqueous suspension of step b). 
     
     
       8. The method of  claim 7 , wherein steps c) and d) can be performed in any order.